Tuesday, September 8, 2009

Tombstone Tuesday - Philip Fritts

Philip Fritts, the son of Peter Fritts and Permelia Williams, was born in Roane County, Tennessee and came to Crittenden County before 13 September 1853, when he married Pernecia Wilson, daughter of John E. Wilson and Nancy Franks. John E. Wilson lived on a farm near Crooked Creek Church and cemetery.

Philip and Pernecia had the following children: John McChesney, Nancy Jane, Philip G., Malvine, Mary Tom, Josephine, Anthony Hodge, William S. and Susan Alice. Pernecia died about 1877 and the following year Philip married Martha Jane Conger. Philip and Martha Jane had two children: Walker Paul and Lillie B. Fritts.

In the 6 August 1896 issue of the Crittenden Press, there was a short article announcing the death of Philip Fritts. It states, “Mr. Philip Fritts died at his residence 1 ½ miles north of Marion. Mr. Fritts was an old resident of the county, a man of unblemished character, a kind and indulgent husband and father, a warm friend and an accommodating neighbor. His disease was fever, from which he has been a sufferer for several weeks.”

An obituary appeared in the Press in the 13 August 1896 issue. It states “His remains were interred in the Crooked Creek Cemetery, Rev. E.B. Blackburn conducting the services. Again the Death Angel comes and knocks at the door of your neighbor and summons our best and oldest citizen …”